Faxing 3-D models via computers.

Researchers at Stanford University's Computer Graphics Laboratory have demonstrated the capability to make and fax three-dimensional computer models of objects that are so detailed they can be used to create accurate physical facsimiles of the original. Such an ability has a number of potential applications, including computer graphics for movies and video games, home shopping, and the duplication of rare artifacts or engineering prototypes.

They scanned a sculpture of a "happy Buddha," converted it into a computer model, then transmitted it electronically to 3-D Systems in Valencia, Calif., which uses a process called stereolithography to create plastic models. The company created a facsimile and sent it to the researchers.

According to Marc Levoy, professor of computer science and electrical engineering and head of the 3-D fax project, the basic process began with placing the Buddha on a black platform. A line of sparkling, ruby-red light traced the statue's surface as the platform carried it through the plane of laser light. Scans were made from dozens of different orientations to get enough information to convert them into a highly detailed three-dimensional computer model. Once such a model is created, it can be sent electronically to factories that have the equipment to convert it...